The Scotty design allows the boom to be raised to a 90 degree angle to the water which brings the ball right to the boat. No need for a hook to get at the cable/ball. I've used Penn's, Canon's and Scotty's. Go with the 60" boom Scotty electric. It has the fastest retrieve and the most efficient power draw using a 15lb ball. IMO, that's the best downrigger made.
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Seacat